The Lions hope Thomas can help fill the gap left by wide receiver Nate Burleson, who was placed on season-ending injured reserve last week with a broken leg.

Don't mistake this for an upgrade. Second-year pass catcher Titus Young has shown enough promise to start across from Calvin Johnson in the Lions' offense. Ryan Broyles is their slot man, meaning the Thomas trade is a depth move. Detroit runs a flurry of three- and four-wideout sets; Thomas has a chance to contribute.

Thomas' NFL career has been uneven. He was taken by the Jaguars in the fourth round of the 2009 draft and accounted for 171 catches, 1,768 yards and six touchdowns in 52 starts. He has just 13 receptions for 80 yards this season. Thomas also returns punts.

It won't be easy to replace Burleson's presence on or off the field, but the Lions -- hanging on by a thread in the NFC -- aren't closing up shop.